For just the 3rd time in team history, the Florida State Seminoles will have a 1 in 16 chance to cut down some net. Despite Notre Dame’s number 2 seeding, the ’Noles pulled away early and stayed ahead, winning with a final score of 71-57.
Florida State benefited from their early lead, entering the half with 11 points over the Irish. Meanwhile, the Notre Dame players could not seem to find their rhythm, shooting about 23% on three pointers — half as well as FSU’s sharpshooters — and 31% overall.
Forward Bernard James made his presence known on the paint, putting up 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 14 points. Not to be outdone, Notre Dame forward Tim Abromaitis added 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 21 points of his own. However, it proved insufficient as the FSU defense played just well enough to keep the Irish from a comeback.
The Seminoles now move on to face 11th seeded VCU.